The Hatchery is a lake-based kitesurfing spot located on the Columbia River Gorge region in the Pacific Northwest. The water body faces south with a shoreline characterized by mixed residential development, forest coverage, and road infrastructure. This is primarily a beginner-oriented location with protected, inland water conditions.
The spot features extremely light and unreliable wind conditions, with an average of only 5.6 knots and 0.9% wind reliability, making it challenging for consistent kitesurfing sessions. The surrounding terrain of dense vegetation and moderate elevation changes does not create optimal wind acceleration or funneling effects. Eastern winds (90°) would provide side-shore conditions relative to the south-facing coastline.
The protected nature of this inland location makes it suitable for beginners learning body dragging and light-wind techniques, though actual riding time will be limited. Key considerations include the very light wind window requiring high-aspect ratio kites, shallow water zones near the residential area, and the need to work around nearby structures and trees. This spot is most viable during rare high-wind weather events or seasonal wind patterns that exceed the typical average.